The existing kitchen was dark, oldfashioned and in the wrong position.

THE SOLUTION

‘We chose this house for its space and potential for modern, open-plan living, as our daughter Sophie is a wheelchair user. It was in good condition, just extremely old-fashioned, with a small kitchen at one side of the building. The kitchen is where we all spend the most time, so we decided to relocate it to the large sitting room. I wanted a light, bright kitchen, with a modern feel, but it also had to be in keeping with the house. Designer Andrea Hobson at local company Drew Forsyth understood what we wanted to achieve. We chose classic, painted cabinetry, an Aga, and a big, central island with a built-in, circular dining area. It’s a very large room but the layout is so well thought through. I love how light it is now, and the different elements work together so well. It’s the best thing we ever did.’

EXTRA SEATING The large island provides space for plenty of additional relaxed seating

ABOVE ‘The imposing chimney breast, which frames the Aga, was built out from existing pillars, and the cornicing above has been cleverly matched in, so the whole structure feels like it’s always been there.’ Hamilton Arm bar stools, £145 each, Next. Quoizel Emery pendant lights, £318 each, JG Harrison. Bespoke antiqued silvered mirror splashback, £1,000, Drew Forsyth & Co.

RIGHT ‘The island is the anchoring piece and I like the symmetry of the curved elements on either end. As well as storage, it houses the microwave, an integrated dishwasher and the bin.’ Bespoke Georgian-style units, including bench and table, £42,000, Drew Forsyth & Co, painted in Hague Blue and Lamp Room Gray modern eggshell, £73 for 2.5ltr, Farrow & Ball